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Free & BrEasy - The New Hebrides



We are back in the Pacific, halfway on the 1150 mile passage from Vanuatu to Mackay, Australia. We steamed past New Caledonia in the night without stopping but we are hoping to get reports from those members of the fleet who have visited those very Scottish sounding islands. The winds were light to start off with so we have been using the dreaded motor lots but at last we are sailing and enjoying listening to the rush of water past the hull interrupted by the slam and bang of waves into the underside of the bridge between the hulls (part of the character of catamarans).


Vanuatu (renamed from the New Hebrides, to keep the Scottish theme going) will last long in our memory. Our arrival was marked by a 10h bar prop, followed, after very little sleep, by a 5am call to watch the World Cup final. Alejandro supported Argentina while Roger and Michael were Germany fans. A great game which maintained the excitement level at fever pitch right to the end as the winning goal was only scored towards the end of extra time. An advertisers dream! Interestingly the fleet was split in allegiance to the two teams, with loud vocal support being provided by both German and Argentinean Nationals. Both flags were diplomatically flown by the bar but we were surprised to see cars and trucks bedecked with German flags, driving and hooting horns, through the streets of Port Villa.

The next day was spent repairing the water maker (a reverse osmosis pump that turns seawater into drinking water). Such is the quality of life on board these days that water makers are essential to sustain life to provide regular showers and even flush loos! Nearly every boat in the fleet seems to have had problems with their water maker!

There was still time for fun and Alejandro went abseiling down a waterfall and scuba diving. In the evening we were treated by World ARC to an evening meal and prize giving at the restaurant which was only a step away from our boats. Free & BrEasy was given a prize for catching up! A great evening with good food and conversation followed by dancing!

The next day we decided to leave one day earlier than the fleet as Roger has an important date in Mackay. His wife, Annabelle is joining the boat so we can't be late! We filled all the water and diesel tanks, bought provisions and smoothly cast off from the wharf. A short but very pleasant stay in the "Land Eternal", which is the meaning of Vanuatu. Perhaps it's fortuitous that the name "New Hebrides" is available again so that an independent Scotland can be renamed!

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